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Tips for a fang-tastic Halloween

Burnaby

2017-10-27 14:24 PDT

Burnaby RCMP and Burnaby Fire Department are coming together this year to ask Burnaby residents to keep safety top of mind for Halloween so that everyone can have a spook-takular night. Each year, both agencies respond to incidents that are easily preventable by following the advice and tips below.

Burnaby Fire Department Chief Joe Robertson says; Halloween is the busiest night of the year for Burnaby Fire Department. We ask that Burnaby residents follow the advice below to ensure that we can do our job and respond to everyone who needs our help this Halloween night.

Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.

Use a battery-operated candle or glow-stick in jack-o-lanterns. Avoid using real candles.

Make sure to test all smoke alarms in your home to ensure they are working.

Tell children to stay away from open flames including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them, when they visit each home.

Make sure your children know how to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches fire. Have children practice this before Halloween. Stopping immediately, dropping to the ground, covering their face with hands, and rolling over and over to put the flames out.

Cpl. Daniela Panesar with Burnaby RCMP says; Whether they’re ghosts, werewolves, witches or clowns; adults and children need to ensure they’re visible to drivers when out trick-or-treating. We ask that you consider the following tips before leaving your home on Halloween.

Make sure your vision is not restricted by a mask or costume that doesn’t fit properly.

If imitation weapons make up part of your costume then make sure they look fake.

Stay on sidewalks and make sure children are accompanied by a responsible adult.

Stay away from animals you don’t know; pets get frightened at Halloween.

Plan a route. Make sure you know where your children are going and what time they’re going to check in with you.

Make sure your children know who to call in an emergency and how to make the call.

As per a bylaw amendment passed last year, the sale of fireworks in Burnaby is illegal. Children and adults end up in hospital emergency rooms with serious injuries because of fireworks. They are not to be played with. For more information on the rules concerning the use of fireworks see the City of Burnaby website here.